The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Department of Video Technology, in partnership with the DUT Community Engagement Office, hosted the Empower Her Essentials Outreach Programme on Friday, 29 August 2025, at Gcinimfundo Secondary School in Malangeni, Ndwedwe.
The purpose of Empower Her Essentials Outreach is to uplift and inspire young girls by providing essential resources, motivational support, and career guidance to encourage confidence, personal growth, and future success.
The DUT team received a warm welcome from the school principal, Mr Chili, who expressed his gratitude for including Gcinimfundo in such a special initiative. He encouraged the learners to make the most of the day, saying: “These kinds of opportunities are very rare, so listen attentively and ask as many questions as you possibly can.”
Opening the programme, Ms Irene Rajeshree John, Secretary of the Video Technology Department, highlighted the vision behind the initiative. “Our aim is to be in partnership with schools and communities because we believe that together we can shape a brighter future,” she said. Ms John explained that the programme aligns with DUT’s ENVISION2030, which imagines “a future where education, opportunity, and innovation empower every young person to reach their full potential.” She added that the department’s visit sought not only to introduce learners to opportunities in video technology, filmmaking, and scriptwriting but also to motivate them to see themselves as future leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
Motivational speaker and Video Technology lecturer, Mr Samuel Ntsanwisi, addressed the learners under the theme “Open Your Eyes and See.” “Being alive and breathing is the greatest gift we have,” he told them. Using the story of two hospital patients, one blind yet describing rivers and mountains to his bedridden friend, Ntsanwisi reminded the girls that perspective shapes reality. “It’s not about the village you come from, but where you are going,” he said. “Be like an eagle, see further than others, hold onto your vision, and don’t let anything take it away.” He further emphasised the importance of education, urging the learners never to leave DUT or any institution without a qualification. “Books and knowledge are treasures no one can take from you. People will always talk, but I prefer they talk while I am moving forward.”
The learners also heard inspiring testimonies from current DUT students. Video Technology student, Ms Alondwe Cele, shared her journey of navigating university life and reminded the girls of the importance of focus and self-love. “You need to take care of yourself and always remember where you come from,” she said.
Adding to the programme, Video Technology Lecturer, Mr Sicelo Nxumalo, gave learners a deeper understanding of video technology, highlighting the behind-the-scenes creativity of storytelling and the exciting career opportunities in the field.
Mr Sibongiseni Mthalane, a technician in the department, also shared his personal journey, inspiring learners by recounting how he pursued his studies in engineering despite coming from a humble background. He emphasized the value of perseverance, hard work, and belief in oneself, illustrating that success is possible regardless of one’s starting point. His testimony reinforced the programme’s message that determination and education can open doors to careers that once seemed out of reach.
The event also included a career guidance session, equipping learners with practical knowledge on applying to university, exploring different courses, and choosing careers that best align with their strengths and personalities.
The day concluded with the handing over of essential items to female learners in celebration of Women’s Month, leaving the girls not only motivated but also supported in tangible ways as they pursue their dreams.
Pictured: DUT Team with Learners from Gcinimfundo Secondary School.
Phumeza Msongelwa
